Inhabitat’s Top Green Car Picks from the LA Auto Show

The 2010 LA Auto Show is just heating up and it’s already marking the arrival of the modern electric car era; which is fitting, considering Los Angeles is expected to be one of the biggest EV markets in the US. This year’s show boasts more than 50 electric, hybrid, and alternative fuel vehicles, and it's anticipated that more than half of the production cars featured will be on sale in the coming year. Inhabitat was on the scene early to bring you some highlights of this year’s show straight from the convention floor.

Automobiles have managed to garner more interest over the past year, and the motor companies have expanded their exhibitions to make them more interactive than last year’s showing. We would like to think that the growing trend is due in large part to the greener options that nearly all motor companies seem to be rolling out on the production line ready for immediate consumer, well, consumption. While concept cars remain cool, and all seem to be carrying a sustainable undertone these days, we were happy to be able to preview a number of fuel efficient vehicles available for “the holiday season” or shortly after. Here are Inhabitat’s top picks from the opening day:

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Honda Fit EV Concept Electric

Honda decided Los Angeles was the perfect market to make the world debut of their Honda Fit EV Concept Electric Vehicle and their new platform for the plug-in hybrid. When it hits production, the Fit EV will achieve an estimated range of 100 miles on one charge and have a top speed of 90mph.

Nissan Ellure

Nissan unveiled its Ellure Concept car, which showcases futuristic styling as a preview of what sustainable vehicles will look like in coming years. Even the curves on the new Ellure are made to minimize the drag and increase efficiency, proving that form, in this case, does follow function.

Jaguar C-X75

The C-X75 is another hot ride that’s turning heads at the show. The plug-in car has the ability to go 68 miles while reaching top speeds of 205 mph. Jaguar believes the car proves that a vehicle can carry their values of performance, design and luxury while being environmentally responsible.

Mitsubishi I

Mitsubishi unveiled their North American Version of the new “I” electric vehicle, modeled after their very popular gasoline-powered “I” minicar in the Japanese market. The 2012 model will be powered 100% by batteries.

Toyota Rav4 Electric

One of the most anticipated vehicles of the year, the Rav4 electric was unveiled showing-off a powerful partnership between titans Tesla and Toyota.

Smart ForTwo Electric

The Smart ForTwo Electric Drive is not making its debut at the LA Auto Show, but is available for in display viewing. While small in size, the Smart ForTwo Electric Drive delivers on thoughtful lifecycle details; 95% of the vehicle will be able to be recycled when its life on the road runs out.

Volkswagon Golf blue-e-motion

The Volkswagen’s Golf blue-e-motion will be available in 2013, but lucky members of the press will have a first-time opportunity to get behind the wheel at the LA Auto Show. The Volkswagon Golf blue-e-motion is one of at least 13 brands that will be offering test drives to media, showcasing the growing number of alternative fuel vehicles.

+ LA Auto Show